22 Like an equation Part 3 (1/2)

For the next two days, he hears many amazing stories regarding the girl. One of them was her brute strength. Though Sumire most likely had no intention of showing everybody. But it seems like more girls are calling out to her. After such repeated visits, naturally, she could no longer hold back. Shin marched down the halls; he was on his way to see her.

He heard that Sumire spent a lot of time in Yuhi's studio. Due to his exceptional grades and talent, the school set aside a space for Yuhi. A small building at the back of the art building. It did not take him long before he reached the place. The door was slightly open, so Shin peeked inside. Sumire and Yuhi sat side by side in front of an easel; they seemed to discuss the painting. Considering how Sumire was the one holding the brush, Shin assumed it was her painting.

”Sum-” his sentence fell short when something unexpected happened. The two were discussing the painting, so Shin did not expect the next part. Yuhi covered his mouth with Sumire's in just seconds.

His eyes widened when he saw this scene. What on earth is going on here? Why is Yuhi kissing her?

For a moment, Shin could only stand by the door and awkwardly watch. He knew he should have looked away. But his brain was still trying to process the current situation.

”I think you're getting used to me kissing you,” Yuhi mumbled against the girl's lips.

Shin, however, noticed something amiss. The girl's gaze seemed lifeless. Yuhi traced his thumb there. ”Did it hurt?”

”I'm..okay,” Sumire mumbled. ”Yuhi, I'm thirsty. I will get us some drinks.”

Yuhi nodded. ”Alright.”

Shin stepped aside, but it was far too late. Sumire saw him; she did not say a word. But Shin could not miss the expression on her face before he could say a word she already disappeared behind the double doors. Shin sighed and awkwardly entered the room.

The moment he entered, he saw a room filled with paintings, sculptures, and large pieces. Paintbrushes scattered everywhere, alongside different types and shades of paper. It was a breathtaking sight. This was the first time Shin came here.

Yuhi glanced over at him and sighed. ”Did you need something?”

”Not from you, but from the girl who just left the room.” Shin looked away. ”What were you doing? You two aren't --”

”Yeah, I know. But when we were painting together just now, she looked very sad again. It probably wasn't the wisest choice on my part. But I don't know what else I can do when she looks like that.” Yuhi ran his hand through his hair. ”This is difficult for me too. I want Sumire to learn to love again. I want to show her that this world can be beautiful even without Tsueno Mamoru. But as it currently stands, just getting her to smile is difficult.”

Difficult? Shin raised his eyebrows at that comment. He recalled Sumire's expression three days back. Is Yuhi stupid? A hard time making her smile? Sure other people could say that, but Yuhi? Sumire only smiles around him. This big dofus, Shin, wanted to lecture him. But he knew it was not his place to do so.

”She will come back, right?” Shin swiftly changed the topic.

”Yeah.”

”I will wait then.”

”Since you are here, anyway. I will ask you this, do you like Sumire?” Yuhi asked.

”Huh?”

Yuhi lit his cigarette, and ash's smoke appeared in the air. ”I mean, your expression gave it away then.”